Taffy Abel and the Funny Ranger | New York Rangers News

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It's July 18th. This is New York Rangers News Today, AI-powered stories from inside your team. Back in the day, the original New York Rangers squad, the ones who snagged the Stanley Cup in 1928, were apparently a pretty, hilarious crew. A big part of that comedic relief was a defenseman named Clarence Abel or Taffy, as they called him.
He was the first American-born player in the NHL, and even carried the flag for the US Olympic hockey team in 1924
Taffy apparently loved a good time, and that included a bit too much beer, which his coach, Lester Patrick, was always trying to get him to cut back. On. He was known for his singing, harmonizing tunes like, when strolling through the park one day, and busting out some smooth dance moves with a big. Grayley Lynn. There's a story about a team meeting where Patrick was explaining defensive strategy, emphasizing the importance of spreading out. Taffy, who had dozed off, was woken up by a kick, and then, when asked what he'd do facing a three-man rush alone, he perfectly repeated Patrick's. Instruction. Spread out. Patrick, clearly amused, but still trying to make a point, then asked Taffy what he'd do if he was alone on defense, and a three-man rush came at him. Taffy, without missing a beat, quit back that he'd do exactly what Patrick told him. Spread out.
It sounds like Taffy Abel brought a lot of personality and humor to that championship team, proving that even in intense sports, a good laugh can go a long way.